Fraudsters swindled unsuspecting Belgians out of no less than 15 million euros in the first half of this year through fake online investments. Compatriots who fell victim to online investment fraud lost an average of around 37,777 euros each this year. This is not a marginal phenomenon, as no less than 40% of the population say they have come into contact with a dubious investment offer at some point. That is why the Centre for Cybersecurity Belgium decided to run a Safeonweb campaign against investment fraud this year.
Two months after its launch, the Safeonweb campaign against investment fraud appears to be a success. Thanks to a sustained media presence and the collective mobilisation of numerous partners, the prevention message has been widely disseminated to the general public.
One in two Belgians has seen the Safeonweb campaign
After the press conference, the campaign received extensive media coverage. In addition, the results of the media campaign – TV, online videos, social networks, native articles, display and search – contributed to greater visibility of the message and strengthened its national reach.
Almost half of Belgians remember the campaign and its message is generally perceived as clear, original and relevant. The figures confirm this:
- 76% find the prevention message clear.
- 82% say the campaign made them think.
- 86% feel more inclined to be wary of fraudulent offers.
- 75% want more information on this subject.
The impact goes even further than just awareness: of those who remember the campaign, 37% have talked about it with others, 37% have sought more information and 28% have consulted Safeonweb.
Strong mobilisation of partners
Throughout the campaign, numerous public and private partners organised local actions, awareness campaigns, educational interventions and various initiatives to better inform citizens. Thanks to their efforts, the message was able to reach a wider audience and vigilance was firmly established in the public sphere.
The CCB would like to thank all these partners for their ongoing commitment. Their support is essential to effectively protect citizens and strengthen cyber security in Belgium.